AN IMPORTANT safety refit has been completed at York's oldest swimming pool.

Part of the Edwardian Yearsley Pool, built in 1908, was closed off in February as a precaution after a problem with a drainage grille.

But a City of York Council overhaul over Easter has now allowed the pool to be fully opened again.

Part of the pool was closed off after a suction problem with the grille was identified. The council has been operating the pool to national guidelines and had never had any problems with the grille previously.

But after identifying the problem, the area of the pool containing the drain was cordoned off, and a consultant working on behalf of the Institute of Sports and Recreation Management (ISRM) was called in to investigate.

Richard White, the council's assistant director of Commercial Services, which runs the pool through its Total Leisure Management section, said: "Safety is our main priority, and after concern was raised over the grille we cordoned off the area to reassure our customers, and then ordered a full review.

"As a result of that we have brought in a new and improved grille, which adopts the very latest standards by doubling the suction points which drain the water into the plant room."

The work was carried out over the Easter break, when the pool was closed anyway for routine maintenance.

Carl Evans, of ISRM Consultants, said their inspection had shown the council had already carried out improvements at Yearsley Pool, but it had been able

to recommend further work.

He said: "Yearsley Pool represents a landmark in the industrial and social history of York and the council is clearly working to ensure it remains a safe and enjoyable place.

"Problems with grille outlets have only recently been highlighted. We have long campaigned for the safe management and operation of pools and we are pleased to have been able to support City of York Council on this occasion."

Updated: 11:32 Wednesday, April 24, 2002